Merle Emanuel Ellinger

Merle Emanuel Ellinger, 95, of Logan, passed away on Tuesday, March 9, 2026, at Hocking Valley Community Hospital in Logan. Born on October 15, 1930, in Hocking County, he was the son of the late Emanuel and Florence (Blum) Ellinger. He shared nearly 68 years of marriage with his late wife, Betty J. (Frasure) Ellinger.

Merle worked as a butcher and, together with Betty, owned stores in Croton and Logan. He was the steadfast cornerstone of his family, a man whose quiet strength, stories, and deep affection left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. His love and the memories he created remain a living legacy for all those he touched.

He is survived by his grandchildren, Jeffrey E. Ellinger of Rockbridge, Nathan F. (Stephanie) Ellinger of Ross County, and Jessica L. (Tim Bigham) Ellinger of Logan; great-grandchildren, Breanna (Jacob) Boyd, Wyat Ellinger, Kaylee Ellinger, Grant (Ashley) Stewart, Dillon Stewart, Audrianna Watson, twins Alanna and Aleeah Watson, Miley Bigham, and Gracelynn Bigham; three great-great-grandchildren; special friend Larry Dickens; and several nieces and nephews, including David Rauber.

Merle was preceded in death by his parents, Emanuel and Florence; his wife, Betty; his sons, Jeffrey L. Ellinger and Douglas L. Ellinger; his brothers, Donald Ellinger, Paul Ellinger, and Lawrence J. Ellinger; and his sister, Helen Rauber.